Ilperveld and Varkensland

Just south of Purmerend there is a great area for kayaking. Actually there are two areas: The Ilperveld west of the Noordhollands Kanaal and Varkensland east of the Noordhollands Kanaal. They are all on the same water-level so there are no locks or portages. The Ilperveld is owned by Het Noordhollands Landschap. There is a visitors center along the Noordhollands Kanaal. Varkensland is owned by Staatsbosbeheer. The area is very open, so the best time for visiting is a calm day. In the Ilperveld there is a marked kayak route of 12 km. It is marked with poles with a blue top. A good starting point is along the ring-dike of De Purmer just outside Ilpendam. 

Kayak rentals, both can be reached by bus line 106 from Central Station Amsterdam, direction Purmerend:

Mapmyride: http://www.mapmyride.com/route/netherlands/ilpendam/680268613

Air view of Ilpendam with Purmerend in the backround (taken on March 6, 2011, flight CX270 Cathay Pacific to Hong Kong)

Starting point.

The starting point is along the dike just east of Ilperdam. Exit the N235 between Purmerend and Amsterdam and enter the village Ilpendam. Turn right and also on the next intersection you keep to the right. You drive trough the narrow streets of Ilperdam in the direction Monnickendam. Just outside the village you find kayak piers on both sides of the dike. There is a sign that indicates you enter the nature park Varkensland (pigs land). I think it has got this name because of the muddy land. Most of it is just above water-level.

Towards the marked 12 km route.

Go south and turn right at the house-boat into the Gouwsloot. This is a straight canal that leads towards the Noordhollands Kanaal. Go straight on and enter the Ilperveld. At the second intersection you meet the marked route. 

Watergang.

The church of Watergang is a landmark which can be seen from all directions. On the map it is situated just left of the W of Watergang. There is a connection to the Noordhollands Kanaal. Go under the white bridge and then you go under the bridge of road N235. You turn right and after a short distance you see a bridge on your left where you can enter the Ilperveld.

Den Ilp.

Den Ilp is a long stretched village north of Landsmeer. There is a waterway behind the village along Het Twiske. There are 4 passages connecting it to the Ilperveld. At the south-eastern most point of Het Twiske there is a kayak-pier where you can stop for a break.

Polder Noordmeer.

In Varkensland it is very interesting to paddle the canal along the polder Noordmeer. The land lies a lot lower. This gives a beautiful view. 

Varkensland.

Varkensland.

Watergang

Watergang

Watergang

Behind Den Ilp: bridge towards the recreation area Het Twiske (on the right).